Helpful Insurance Tips

How to Prevent Vehicle Theft

• Always lock your vehicle and take the keys-even for quick stops.
• Do not leave the vehicle idling unattended; use remote start if needed.
• Conceal valuables (bags, electronics); keep the cabin clear and tidy.
• Park in well-lit, visible areas or enclosed garages where possible.
• Add deterrents: steering-wheel lock, immobilizer, alarm, tracking tag.
• Consider a Faraday pouch for key fobs (thwarts relay theft).

Vehicle Safety & Maintenance

• Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.
• Address changes in braking, handling, steering, or warning lights promptly.
• Tyres: check tread depth and pressures monthly (incl. spare).
• Keep an emergency kit: booster cables, triangle/flares, first aid, blanket.

Brake warning signs

• Squeal/grind/bang when braking
• Pulling to one side under braking
• "Grabby" brakes, vibration in pedal/steering
• Pedal near floor or requires excessive force

Child Restraint Safety

• Use a seat that matches the child's age/height/weight and meets Canadian standards.
• Read the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle manual.
• Have the install checked by a qualified technician if available.

Road Safety & Distractions

• Never use a handheld device while driving; set navigation and music before you move.
• Drive to conditions: slow for rain/snow/ice; increase following distance.
• Never drive impaired (alcohol, drugs, fatigue).

Preparing for Winter Driving

• Install four matching winter tyres; check pressures as temperatures drop.
• Top up winter washer fluid; keep a snow brush/ice scraper in the car.
• Carry a cold-weather kit: blanket, gloves, hat, shovel, traction aids, flashlight.

What to Do if You're Involved in an Accident

1. Safety first: move to a safe spot; call 911 if needed.
2. Document: exchange info, take photos/video, gather witnesses.
3. Report: many Ontario municipalities direct you to a Collision Reporting Centre.
4. Call us or your insurer's 24/7 line to open a claim.

See also: Automobile Claims and Collision Reporting Centres.

General Commercial Crime Prevention

• Deadbolt exterior doors; secure hinge pins; upgrade strike plates.
• Protect ground-level glass (bars, screens, laminated/tempered glazing).
• Monitored alarm (ULC-certified) and interior/exterior lighting.
• Fire extinguishers: multi-purpose units; train staff and service regularly.
• Housekeeping: clear sightlines to tills; keep cash low; vary bank runs.

Protecting Computer Equipment

• Secure devices (locks/cable kits); don't leave laptops unattended.
• Back up data regularly and store a copy offsite/secure cloud.
• Maintain serial-number inventory; enable device tracking/remote wipe.

Business Interruption Preparedness

• Maintain financials, payroll, and key contracts; keep copies offsite.
• Create a continuity plan: alternate suppliers, temporary premises, rentals.
• Track extra expenses that reduce downtime (overtime, expedited shipping).
• Know your waiting period/time deductible and coverage limits.

Contractors' Loss Prevention Tips

• Pre-job/task planning; hot-work permits and 30-minute fire watch.
• Secure tools (marked/painted), materials, and site access; post signage.
• Control cords and debris; manage mud/water on public ways.
• Locate buried services before digging; store flammables in approved cans.
• Collect COIs from subs; test/inspect new equipment; keep job records.

Office Loss Prevention Tips

• Don't overload circuits; use licensed electricians for upgrades.
• Test life-safety systems (alarms, exits, emergency lighting) as required.
• Clean spills immediately; use mats in wet seasons; inspect floors routinely.

Commercial Vehicles - Driver & Fleet Safety

• Hire carefully; run abstracts; train for the vehicle and cargo type.
• Daily inspections; maintenance records; emergency kit on every unit.
• Secure loads; avoid excess speed; use vehicles only as intended.
• Key control: never leave running/unattended; keep keys separate/unlabeled.
• Protect trip info; don't disclose cargo or routes publicly.

Repair Garage Loss Prevention Tips

• Keep customers out of bays; provide a safe waiting area.
• Use signed work orders incl. declined work; verify road-test rules.
• Light premises; secure overnight vehicles; fence/padlock outside storage.
• Key control: locked cabinets, limited access, logged sign-out.
• Limit cash on site; accurate stock inventory; CCTV as appropriate.

Retail Loss Prevention Tips

• Keep combustibles away from heat/electrical; remove waste frequently.
• Maintain 18" clearance below sprinklers; don't block exits.
• Elevate stock off floors; good exterior/interior lighting; sightlines to tills.
• Limit cash; vary deposit routes/times; lock high-value goods.
• Consider EAS tags/CCTV; service life-safety systems per code.

Slip & Fall Loss Prevention

• Document daily inspections and corrective actions (keep a log).
• Keep aisles clear; mop spills immediately; "Wet Floor" signage.
• Use non-slip finishes where needed; maintain mats; manage winter entryways.
• Repair exterior hazards; manage snow/ice with contractors and logs.
• Ensure lighting works; direct downspouts away from walkways.

Crime Prevention - At a Glance

• Daytime is common for break-ins; burglars look for easy, hidden access.
• Harden entry points: doors, windows, basements, sliding doors.
• Keep the home looking occupied with lights/timers and visible activity.

Tips for Inside Your Home

• Lock all doors/windows; pin sliders and easily-lifted window sashes.
• Close blinds at night; don't showcase valuables.
• Use a monitored alarm as a layer-not a substitute for good habits.
• Mark/record valuables (photos, serial numbers); consider a safe deposit box.

Tips for Outside Your Home

• Trim shrubs near entries; improve lighting and sightlines.
• Solid exterior doors with quality deadbolts; secure hinge pins.
• Harden glass near locks (laminated/tempered film) and basement windows (bars with emergency release).
• Prevent slider lift-out (track pins/screws).
• Store ladders; don't allow roof access from trees.

What NOT to Do

• Don't advertise absences (notes on doors, public posts).
• Don't hide keys in obvious spots; keep spare keys offsite with someone trusted.
• Don't leave handbags/cash in view; lock doors even when you're home but in another area.

Going on Vacation

• Pause mail/flyers; arrange lawn/snow care; use timers for lights and radios.
• Ask a neighbour to park in your driveway and move bins on collection day.
• Leave contact info with someone you trust; avoid sharing travel plans publicly.
• Secure garage; consider storing small valuables offsite.

If Your House Is Broken Into

• Don't enter if you suspect someone's inside-go to a safe place and call police.
• Don't disturb the scene; wait for instructions from police.
• List missing/damaged items (photos/serials) and contact us/your insurer.